The minister of the interior in Belgium has postponed their compliance with EES rules to collect biometrics, as test runs of biometric registration proved to extend queues.
The Entry/Exit System has gradually been implemented since October, with a strict deadline for all states by 10 April. Many states have taken a phased approach to allow for any technical hitches and may temporarily suspend the system in exceptional circumstances, for example congestion.
Ministers Quintin and Van Bossuyt noted that the phased introduction has led to a significant increase in waiting times at border controls, leading them to abandon their specific timeline to deploy the system for now. Stakeholders have
The various stakeholders have been working hard for months to align secure border controls with expected passenger flows, all while fitting within the framework of the new system.
“Strong borders are a necessary prerequisite for an effective migration policy and are essential for the safety of our citizens, including at airports,” emphasised minister Van Bossuyt. “At the same time, the European system must function smoothly in practice, which clearly requires more time.”
